The EIU view

King Abdullah is expected to remain in power and will manage to crack down on any dissent, supported by his loyal armed forces and the government. The prime minister will push forward some fiscal reforms but will be cautious of public unrest. Presence of Syrian refugees will add pressure on public finances. Jordan will remain dependent on foreign support and the fiscal deficit will remain large. Real GDP growth will pick up gradually, but employment will remain high.

Financial support offered at London conference
Financial support from Europe and the UK in particular will continue to help Jordan to develop small enterprises. Private-sector investment is likely to pick up only slowly in 2019-23.

Need for export diversification
In 2018 exports grew by 3.5% year on year. However, structural changes to industries are needed to enhance the export portfolio and this will happen only in the long term.

Security forces curtail protests in Anjara
A nationwide protest with the aim of overthrowing the regime is unlikely as Jordanians are wary of toppling the king after witnessing the aftermath of such events in Iraq and Libya.

Jordan/Kuwait: Deepening ties
Kuwait and Jordan have inked 15 deals to enhance co-operation in various fields. Ties are set to grow stronger over 2019-23, with Kuwait providing economic support to Jordan.

European low-cost carriers start operations
Jordan's tourism sector has suffered badly from the effects of regional instability but will rebound in the coming years as low-cost carrier operations will boost tourism from Europe.

Jordan remains vulnerable to terrorist attacks
Despite support from the US, the threat from Islamic State and other extremist groups poses security challenges for Jordan. The threat of terrorist attacks will affect economic growth.